We know that for many of our families, this week is defined by a mix of anticipation and nervous energy. With the Zentrale Aufnahmeprüfung (ZAP) now behind us, many children are anxiously awaiting their results. We want to take a moment to wish every pupil the very best of luck. Regardless of the outcome, the dedication and courage shown in preparing for such a milestone is an achievement in itself.
Bilingual Excellence with a Design & Humanitarian Focus
For those who are already looking ahead or perhaps reconsidering their options in light of the limited spaces often available in the public Gymnasium system, we want to remind you that there is a vibrant, alternative path here at Tandem IMS.
Our Progymnasium and Kurzgymnasium classes are designed for pupils who seek more. We offer a Bilingual Swiss Matura that deeply integrates Design and Humanitarian Studies into the core curriculum.
If your child thrives in an environment where global citizenship and creative problem-solving are valued as highly as academic rigour, our doors are open. We offer the space and personal attention that allows pupils to "jump into this track" and truly excel, often finding a more tailored fit here than in larger public institutions.
STEAM Success: Leading the Way in Innovation
Speaking of thriving, we have some incredible news to share! We are absolutely thrilled to announce the recent success of our Kurzgymnasium girls in the National STEAM Challenge.
Not only did they reach the Grand Finals, but they also won the Public Voting round! This achievement is a testament to how well our pupils are responding to creative, problem-based tasks. At Tandem IMS, these are a cornerstone of our curriculum and philosophy. Seeing our students apply technical knowledge to real-world challenges and seeing the public recognise their talent confirms that we are preparing them for a future that demands both brilliance and innovation.
Reflection: Lessons from Robben Island
Our recent Project Week served as a powerful reminder of why we prioritise humanitarian studies. Meeting Christo Brand, Nelson Mandela's former prison guard, was a transformative experience.
His stories of life with Mandela didn't just teach history; they taught resilience and empathy. By reflecting on how a prison guard and his prisoner could find common humanity, our students were challenged to look at their own lives through a lens of reconciliation and respect. Guided by world explorer Anthony Willoughby and his colleague Elfyn Jones, this "Anthropology" focus provided the kind of holistic growth that defines the Tandem IMS journey. A big thank you also to those of you who attended our panel discussion. Your attendance contributed greatly to the success of the event.
Discover Tandem IMS: Upcoming Info Events
We invite you to get to know Tandem IMS in person. Whether you are interested in Primary 5 & 6, Progymnasium, or Kurzgymnasium, these events are the perfect opportunity to meet our teachers face-to-face and tour our modern facilities.
We are still welcoming registrations for the upcoming school year beginning in August 2026. To help you navigate the process, here are the essential facts regarding our two entry levels:
Progymnasium (Secondary Level)
Designed for motivated, high-achieving pupils, the Progymnasium offers both monolingual and bilingual tracks.
Academic Criteria: Admission generally requires an average grade of 4.75 across core subjects including Maths, German, French, English, Art & Design, and Science & Humanities.
The "Potential" Clause: Pupils with an overall grade of 4.5 who show particular potential for a Matura education may also be admitted.
Interview: External pupils will attend an admission interview and oral assessment focusing on school life and motivation. We ask pupils to bring a creative personal statement and one sample of work they are proud of.
Kurzgymnasium (Gymnasium Level):
Our Kurzgymnasium focuses on Design and Humanitarian Studies.
Admission Criteria: Candidates typically require a combined average of 4.75 between their previous report card and their examination grade.
Personal Statement: All applicants participate in an interview where they share a creative personal statement or presentation explaining their interests and goals.
